UGA College of Pharmacy alumni are breaking new ground in their careers, fueled by the same passion for learning and mentorship that they experienced as students with the college. Today, they not only excel professionally but also play a vital role in shaping the future of pharmacy by giving back to the community. Their contributions—ranging from establishing endowed funds to supporting student travel opportunities—demonstrate that growth and connection are lifelong pursuits.
“Mentorship is one of the most powerful ways to shape the future of pharmacy. When students have the opportunity to attend conferences and network with alumni and industry leaders, they gain confidence, direction, and more importantly—inspiration. Alumni support opens those doors, ensuring that every PharmDawg has a chance to connect, learn, and lead.”
– Dean Kelly Smith
Discover how former PharmDawgs are reshaping the profession through mentorship, service, and strategic support for emerging leaders, and let their journeys inspire you to support the next generation of pharmacy professionals by making a donation to the Pharmacy Student Travel Award Fund for Dawg Day of Giving.
Hugh Chancy, BS Pharm ’88, has built a career rooted in service, mentorship, and giving back. As the owner of Chancy Drugs, he knows firsthand how critical professional connections are in shaping a pharmacist’s career. That’s why he and his wife, Tina (PharmD ’88), established the Hugh M. and Tina W. Chancy Leadership Endowment, which helps fund student travel. They have also contributed to the Pharmacy Student Travel Award Fund, recognizing how these experiences expose students to new career opportunities and help them build relationships with future colleagues and mentors.
Why I give: “As I’ve grown in my career, I’ve attended state and national conferences that have helped me connect with colleagues, gain new perspectives, and grow as a leader. Looking back, I wish I had taken advantage of more opportunities to travel as a student. That’s why Tina and I support student travel funds—because we’ve seen firsthand how they help shape future pharmacists.”
Chancy’s passion for mentorship stems from his father, Hubert Chancy (BS Pharm ’62), who instilled in him the belief that pharmacy is more than just a job—it’s a responsibility. “He taught me the importance of serving patients and always striving to provide the best care possible,” he says. Now, Chancy carries on that legacy by mentoring students and young professionals, encouraging them to get involved in professional organizations and attend conferences. “Iron sharpens iron—the more you surround yourself with forward-thinking people, the more you grow.”
Beyond his professional commitments, Chancy enjoys hunting, traveling, and spending time with his family—especially as a proud new grandfather. Whether through financial support or personal mentorship, he remains dedicated to shaping the next generation of pharmacists and strengthening the future of the profession.
Susan McMillan Kane, BS Pharm ’93, reflects on her journey at the College of Pharmacy with heartfelt gratitude for the mentors who shaped her career. Recalling her early days at a local supermarket pharmacy, Susan remembers, “Every pharmacist I worked with became a mentor in some way,” highlighting the diverse support she received from both seasoned professionals and emerging practitioners. These formative relationships not only shaped her career but also instilled a deep sense of belonging within the college’s community.
Motivated by the support she received, Susan has chosen to pay it forward. Recognizing that financial barriers can limit access to critical professional development, she established an endowed fund to support student travel to conferences.
Why I give: “I wanted to help future students access those same opportunities without financial barriers.”
Her donation not only eases monetary constraints but also strengthens the mentorship network that is the backbone of the College of Pharmacy community. By empowering students to attend conferences, Susan’s contribution opens doors for networking and career advancement. Her inspiring commitment reinforces the fact that when mentors give back, the entire community grows stronger. “I have the utmost respect and appreciation for my professors, our deans, and the College of Pharmacy staff who guided me through my years as a student and as a practitioner. I vowed early on to always be an active alumna!”
Outside of her professional journey, Susan enjoys visiting dog parks, walking on the beach, and competing in a pool league—activities that help her unwind and stay grounded. Her commitment to mentorship, professional growth, and community service continues to inspire future generations at the College of Pharmacy.
Parth Patel, PharmD ’23, knows firsthand how transformative professional conferences can be for pharmacy students. Now a Senior Manager of Student Development at the American Pharmacists Association, he credits much of his growth to the opportunities he had as a student to engage with leaders in the field. “Attending conferences helped me expand my knowledge, build meaningful connections, and gain insights that shaped my career,” he shares.
Why I give: “Supporting the Pharmacy Student Travel Award Fund is an investment in the future of pharmacy. By giving, alumni can ensure today’s students have access to these same career-defining experiences.”
Mentorship has also played a crucial role in Patel’s journey. He acknowledges the guidance of Dr. Duc Do, who helped him grow as a student leader, and Dr. Jordan Khail, who continues to support him post-graduation. “These relationships have been invaluable in shaping my career,” he says. The most impactful advice he’s received? “Make sure to be in the room where things are happening.”
From planning a national student conference as SNPhA chapter president to now mentoring future pharmacists, Patel is committed to paying it forward. “As alumni, we have the chance to give back by ensuring today’s students have access to these transformative experiences.”
When he’s not mentoring students or advancing pharmacy education, Patel enjoys exploring his creative side with special effects horror makeup. He’s also taken up tumbling and gymnastics, embracing the challenge of learning new skills. “It’s a fun way to stay active and push myself in different ways,” he says.
Tom Heard, BS Pharm ’83, understands the value of giving back—both financially and through mentorship. Along with his wife, also a pharmacist, he supports College of Pharmacy students by contributing to initiatives like the Pharmacy Student Travel Award Fund.
Why I give: “Pharmacy has provided so many opportunities for my career, and supporting students is a priority for me. Travel funds and other resources allow students to network, present research, and explore career paths beyond the classroom.”
Heard frequently hears from students, both from UGA and other programs, seeking advice on their careers. “I’ve always believed that helping others succeed has a way of coming back to you,” he shares. His approach to mentorship is rooted in sharing his own experiences to help students navigate their careers, whether they are just starting out or exploring new opportunities. He focuses on the importance of building connections and staying open to different career paths. “Pharmacy offers so many pathways, from retail to residencies and beyond,” Heard explains. “Pursuing a one-year residency or fellowship early on can open doors that might be harder to access later in life.” He encourages students to attend national conferences to broaden their professional networks and develop leadership skills that will benefit them throughout their careers.
Beyond pharmacy, Heard enjoys cooking, hiking in the Smoky Mountains, and traveling with his family. Whether through professional guidance or financial support, he remains committed to shaping the future of pharmacy.
Tanzir Mortuza, PhD ‘19, is passionate about giving back to the institution that helped shape his career. Now an Associate Director of Regulatory Affairs at BeiGene, he credits professional conferences for opening doors early in his career. “These meetings were extremely helpful for me to connect with other individuals in my field and helped me find future opportunities,” he says. Because of that experience, he now donates to the student travel fund, ensuring future students have access to the same networking opportunities.
Why I give: “Donating to the College of Pharmacy is near and dear to my heart. I always like to see this institution thrive. If my little contribution helps the institution in any way, I will be extremely satisfied.”
Mentorship has also played a key role in Tanzir’s journey, thanks to the guidance of Dr. Deborah Elder and Dr. Catherine White. “Dr. Elder provided me with opportunities to excel in my communication skills by teaching and lecturing in her compounding class,” he recalls. “Dr. White mentored me to be a better scientist and opened up the immense possibilities in the pharmaceutical industry.” Inspired by their influence, Tanzir now mentors a current pharmacy student. “This is my way of giving back to the next generation of scientists.”
Beyond his professional life, Tanzir enjoys traveling, exploring new cuisines, and cheering on the Dawgs during football season. “I’m a big college football fan, and during the season, I love watching my favorite Dawgs play,” he says.
